Applicator with separately produced and mounted bristle plates

ABSTRACT

A cosmetics applicator with an applicator core and a finger-carrying elastic plate, which has a first three-dimensional shape prior to being united with the core, wherein the finger-carrying plate is attached to the applicator core in such a way that a second three-dimensional shape, which deviates from the first three-dimensional shape, is thereby forced upon it.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a cosmetics applicator with an applicator core and a finger-carrying elastic plate, which has a first three-dimensional shape prior to being united with the core, and a method for producing the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cosmetics applicators are typically produced as so-called wire core applicators, by a number of filaments being inserted between the two legs of a U-shaped wire and the two wire legs then being twisted. The filaments are thus distributed in a helical shape between the wire legs and clamped firmly.

However, different applicators are required for different cases of application. To satisfy this requirement to some degree, such wire core brushes are subsequently cut or thinned out. The spectrum of the variations that can thus be attained, however, leaves something to be desired.

Therefore, a transition has been made in the past decade to producing so-called injection-molded cosmetics applicators, i.e. cosmetics applicator in which the individual bristles are being produced in situ, i.e. directly on or together with the applicator core, during injection-molding. Most frequently, the applicator core and the bristles are produced in one shot from one and the same plastic.

However, the production of a bristle or finger covering of fingers protruding radially all around from a core provided with a round, elliptical or polygonal cross section entails a very considerable expenditure as regards tools. An injection mold is required which is divided like the pieces of a cake and whose components, like the individual pieces of a cake, can be pulled apart in the radial direction and thus be separated from each other, so that the delicate bristles can be molded without being torn off even occasionally.

Because of its special kinematics, this injection mold only has a finite life, because, as the frictional wear on the surfaces sliding along each other during opening and closing increases, it gets more difficult, despite the high injection pressures due to the delicate structures, to make the injection mold so perfectly tight again after each opening process that a formation of burrs at the separation points does not occur.

Accordingly, it is the object of the invention to find a possibility of providing applicators, and in particular very delicate applicators such as mascara applicators, with a bristle covering adapted to the individual requirements of the respective case of application in a simple manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A cosmetics applicator, and in particular a mascara applicator, is proposed in order to achieve the object. The cosmetics applicator can be a complete applicator including a handling means, or an applicator that has a coupling part and can thus be coupled to a stem with a handling means or directly to a handling means and is then ready for use.

Accordingly, the solution according to the invention is realized by a cosmetics applicator with an applicator core. The latter serves for the subsequent mounting of at least one finger-carrying plate, wherein the connection produced within the context of the mounting will often be such that the finger-carrying plate can also be removed again from the applicator core.

Where the term “plate” is used herein, this means a structure that, at least in some portions, is movable in itself over a range greater than just 1/10 mm, and which can thus be brought from a first three-dimensional shape, which it has after its production, into a second three-dimensional shape that deviates therefrom to such an extent so as to be clearly discernible with the naked eye. In any case, a small deformation deviating by only a few 1/10 mm, which is produced, for example, by a finger-carrying strip being pressed with some force into a dovetail groove on an applicator core, which naturally results in its elastic deformation by some 1/10 mm, is not a second three-dimensional shape within the sense of the invention. This also applies, mutatis mutandis, to local small deformations that result from a plate being latched on locally, or, for example, by a plate being welded locally to a bristle carrier.

A tube that is closed in itself in the circumferential direction without any joints is not comprised by the term “plate” as used herein, i.e. designs in which a bristle-carrying tube is injection-molded, which is then pushed onto an applicator core and fixated there without any substantial change of shape, do not come under the scope of protection. In this context, it must be noted that the term “plate” as it is used according to the invention, denotes a “thin plate” in the sense of technical mechanics, i.e. a plate that does not put up any critical resistance even against larger deformations.

Prior to being combined with the applicator core, the finger-carrying plate has a first three-dimensional shape and is then attached to the applicator core in such a way that said second three-dimensional shape is thus forced upon it.

The advantage of the finger-carrying plates according to the invention lies in the fact that production is simplified even in the case of complex finger or bristle geometries.

This not only applies to a covering of tufted bristles or bristles that have been inserted individually or in small tufts, preferably without anchoring. It is obvious that a preferably plane plate can be equipped with bristles considerably quicker than is possible in the “in situ equipping” of a round or even banana-shaped, curved applicator.

This particularly also applies to fingers and bristles that are injection-molded from plastic together with the plate carrying them. A plate which is preferably completely or at least substantially plane in itself, and which is possibly continuously covered with bristles whose longitudinal bristle axes all extend completely or substantially parallel to each other, can be produced with a tool that is designed much more simply than a bristle or finger covering protruding in a star-shaped manner in all directions from a rod-shaped core.

Due to the invention, a small series of individually designed applicators with injection-molded bristles, in particular, come within reach, whose realization has failed so far because the construction of a special injection-molding tool for such a small series is not justifiable as regards the costs.

For one and the same finger-carrying plate according to the invention makes very different bristle or finger fields equipped with bristles or fingers that protrude in a spectacular way possible, depending on how the finger-carrying plate has been wound about the applicator core and fixated there in its second three-dimensional shape.

Furthermore, the invention makes the realization of the following idea realistic:

An injection mold consisting of a plane lower mold part and a plane upper mold part can be configured in a modular manner, if necessary. The upper mold part, which reproduces the bristles or fingers, in that case consists of individual modules that have been placed side-by-side and pressed against each other, each of which has differently configured bristle-forming cavities, in order to place in this manner, for example, rows of completely straight bristles and rows of meandering bristles side-by side onto one and the same finger-carrying plate.

Even if the same bristles or fingers are desired over the entire extent of the finger-carrying plate, this technique suggests itself as being advantageous, for example, in order to be able to manufacture finger-carrying plates with very different edge lengths without any effort worth mentioning.

In this way, a great variety of designs can be realized extremely quickly with a number of mold modules available in store.

It is preferably provided that the finger-carrying plate, due to its attachment to the applicator core, is under an internal tension that tends to restore the original first three-dimensional shape of the finger-carrying plate, at least in part. Thus, the finger-carrying plate is mounted on the applicator core with a bias. In many cases, the spring action of the finger-carrying plate can be adjusted through this bias, which increases the mobility of the bristles and results in a novel spring effect of the bristle covering during application.

Expediently, the finger-carrying plate and/or the applicator core comprise means with which the plate can be attached to the applicator core in such a way that a second three-dimensional shape if forced upon it which deviates from the first three-dimensional shape more than just insubstantially.

Providing such means simplifies the mounting of the finger-carrying plate, which is under tension. Ideally, means are provided that result in a positive connection, such as a button connection or a latching connection. Instead or additionally, means can also be provided which result in a substantially frictional connection, such as fastening pins that are forced into a correspondingly narrow opening and are then retained there in a substantially frictional manner. In any case, the use of such means is advantageous in that the finger-carrying plate that is under tension need not be retained on the applicator core, for example until an adhesive has hardened or weld seam has cooled off.

Within the context of a particularly preferred embodiment, it is provided that the finger-carrying plate has a thin portion, preferably in the form of a pivoting or film hinge. This thin portion connects individual portions of a finger-carrying plate with one another and, due to its flexibility, supports the transfer of the finger-carrying plate from a first three-dimensional shape into a second three-dimensional shape. Ideally, the second three-dimensional shape is even defined by the thin portion, i.e. the thin portion constitutes a predetermined definition for the second three-dimensional shape.

It is ideal if the finger-carrying plate is so thin, flexible and mounted on the applicator core in such a way that the curvature of its main surfaces respectively changes on the predominant part of the respective main surface when the finger-carrying plate is transferred from its first three-dimensional shape into its second three-dimensional shape in which it is fixated on the applicator core. It is even absolutely ideal if the curvature of the main surface changes across the substantially entire main surface.

Within the context of an exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the finger-carrying plate is wound in a helical manner about the applicator core and fixated on the core in this position. Generally, it is particularly advantageous if the thickness D of the finger-carrying plate is ≦9 mm, or better ≦7.5 mm, ideally ≦6 mm, and/or the fingers are predominantly configured as bristles with a maximum bristle diameter of 0.75 mm, better of 0.5 mm, and/or the fingers are configured with a maximum length of 12 mm, better of only 9 mm, and/or the maximum spacing of immediately adjacent fingers is predominantly or even entirely between 0.5 mm and 2.75 mm.

A preferred kind of configuration is characterized in that at least one, better at least two, finger-carrying plates are laid around the applicator core in particular in a U-shaped or V-shaped manner, so that each finger-carrying plate reaches around the applicator core on two circumferential sides and extends over the free end face of the applicator core, or that a finger-carrying plate is configured in a star shape and is laid on the applicator core in such a way that the finger-carrying plate covers, preferably approximately with its center, the free end face of the applicator core and from there reaches over several circumferential sides of the applicator core 8.

Another exceptionally interesting exemplary embodiment provides that a finger-carrying plate is folded in the circumferential direction around at least two, better all, circumferential sides of a polygonal applicator core and substantially rests flat against the respective circumferential sides. This exemplary embodiment is advantageous in that with it, applicators can be produced which can hardly be told apart from applicators with bristles that were injection molded onto the applicator core in situ.

Another, very much preferred exemplary embodiment is characterized in that a finger-carrying plate is bent over at least 90°, better 180°, and ideally 360° in the circumferential direction around a round or oval core, preferably in such a way that the longitudinal axis of the finger-carrying plate extending parallel to the long lateral edge has a helical course.

Another preferred exemplary embodiment provides a cosmetics applicator characterized in that the finger-carrying plate has on the side thereof facing towards the applicator core at least one positive-fit member, and in particular one, better several, T-strips, dovetail strips or beading strips with which the finger-carrying plate can be anchored by positive connection on the applicator core in its second three-dimensional shape, and/or that the applicator core has on the side thereof facing towards the plate at least one such positive-fit member.

Within the context of another preferred exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the applicator core has at least one T-groove, dovetail groove or beading groove accessible from the end face of the core, into which a corresponding counterpart can be inserted by a movement in the direction of the longitudinal core axis after the finger-carrying plate has been forced into its second three-dimensional shape. Alternatively, this may of course be reversed, with an otherwise unchanged configuration, namely that the finger-carrying plate has at least one such groove which is then accessible from the end face of the plate.

The term “beading”, which originates from cloth making and denotes a piping, which is produced by sewing a thickened portion at the edge of a cloth and which can be pushed into a corresponding beading rail in order to fix the cloth, is used here in the broadest sense.

Within the context of a special exemplary embodiment that is very advantageous for some cases of application, it is provided that the finger-carrying plate has, at two spaced-apart locations, positive-fit members that come to rest against each other back-to-back when the finger-carrying plate 2 assumes its second three-dimensional shape, and here then jointly form a single two-part T-strip, a single two-part dovetail strip or a single two-part beading strip, which is accommodated by a single T-groove, dovetail groove or beading groove on the core and thus retains the finger-carrying plate in its second three-dimensional shape on the applicator core. Of course, the above-mentioned strips can be configured in a segmented manner by a row of strip segments standing in alignment one behind the other; thus, they do not lose their function as “a single” strip.

A preferred embodiment provides that a ring or cap-like end part is provided which is fixed on and preferably latched to the applicator core. This end part prevents the T-connection, dovetail connection or beading connection from being pulled out of the applicator core.

Within the context of another preferred exemplary embodiment, it is provided that a finger-carrying plate and the applicator core are held against each other by one, preferably several, latching organs, and in particular by buttoning means.

Alternatively, it can be provided, under certain circumstances, even if that is not preferred, that the finger-carrying plate is retained on the applicator core by means of a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a hook-and-loop fastener or a magnet.

Irrespective of the statements above, but optionally in combination with individual features disclosed elsewhere, protection is also sought for a cosmetics applicator having a finger-carrying plate which covers at least in some sections more than 40% of the outer circumference, better at least in some sections substantially the entire outer circumference of the applicator core. This applicator may have additional further features that are disclosed for the finger-carrying plate or the applicator in this application.

Independent protection is also sought for a cosmetics applicator with at least one finger-carrying plate, which is characterized in that the applicator core and the finger-carrying plate are components that are produced separately from and connected to each other. It also applies in this case that further features disclosed in this application can be added.

Further effects, advantages and optional embodiments of the invention become apparent from the exemplary embodiments described below with reference to the Figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a finger-carrying plate as it can be used for realizing the invention, seen from above.

FIG. 2 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 1, seen from the side.

FIG. 3 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 1, seen in an oblique perspective view from the front and above.

FIG. 4 shows a second exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate as it can be used for the invention.

FIG. 5 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 4, seen in a frontal view from the front.

FIG. 6 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 4, seen in an oblique perspective view from above.

FIG. 7 shows a third exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate as it can be used for realizing the invention, in an oblique perspective view from the front and above.

FIG. 8 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 7, seen in a frontal view from the front.

FIG. 9 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 7, seen in a top view.

FIG. 10 shows another exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate as it can be used for realizing the invention.

FIG. 11 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 10, seen in a frontal view from the front.

FIG. 12 shows the finger-carrying plate shown by FIG. 10, seen in an oblique perspective view from the front and above.

FIG. 13 shows another exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate as it can be used for the first complete exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 in particular shows the applicator core as it can be used for the mounting of the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 shows the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 13, mounted on the applicator core according to FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 shows another exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate as it can be used for realizing the invention.

FIG. 17 shows several of the finger-carrying plates according to FIG. 13 or 16, which are mounted on an applicator core like leaf springs.

FIG. 18 shows several of the finger-carrying plates shown by FIG. 13 or 16, which are mounted on an applicator core along helical lines.

FIG. 19 shows several of the finger-carrying plates described by FIG. 13 or 16, which are mounted on an applicator core in an approximately U-shaped form.

FIG. 20 shows another exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate for assembly, as shown by FIG. 21.

FIG. 21 shows another complete exemplary embodiment in which the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 20 is mounted in a special way.

FIG. 22 shows another exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate in a frontal view from the front.

FIG. 23 shows the exemplary embodiment of the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 22 in a top view from above.

FIG. 24 shows four of the finger-carrying plates according to FIG. 22 in a state in which they are mounted on the applicator core and are thus brought into their second three-dimensional shape.

FIG. 25 shows a finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 8 in a state mounted on the applicator core in a frontal view from the front.

FIG. 26 shows the same applicator as FIG. 25, but seen from the side.

FIG. 27 shows a cross section through an applicator core, which is again equipped with a finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 8, but which is attached differently in this case.

FIG. 28 shows a cap viewed from the side of the handle, which is configured for being pushed onto an applicator core carrying a finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 8.

FIG. 29 shows the cap according to FIG. 28 seen from the other side, in a mounted state. The bristles, which are oriented in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis and which are carried by the cap, and also the bristles of the finger-carrying plate, can be recognized.

FIG. 30 shows an applicator equipped with the cap according to FIG. 29, with a finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 8.

FIG. 31 shows an applicator equipped with a finger-carrying plate according to FIGS. 11 and 12 in the finished state, viewed from the side.

FIG. 32 shows the applicator according to FIG. 31 in a frontal view from the front.

FIG. 33 shows the applicator core 8 with an as yet unmounted finger-carrying plate; this applicator core belongs to an applicator as shown in FIG. 31.

FIG. 34 shows an individual view of the end cap that can already be seen in FIG. 31.

FIG. 35 shows a longitudinal-axis section through an applicator according to FIG. 31.

FIG. 36 shows a section along the line B-B in FIG. 31.

FIG. 37 shows a special finger-carrying plate as it is used for the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 38 to 40.

FIG. 38 shows the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 37 viewed from its end face.

FIG. 39 shows an enlarged view of the retaining organs 4 a with which the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 37 is equipped.

FIG. 40 shows the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 37 in a state assembled to form a complete applicator.

FIG. 41 shows another exemplary embodiment of a finger-carrying plate as it is used for the construction of an applicator according to FIG. 43.

FIG. 42 shows the finger-carrying plate according to FIG. 41 in a state ready for assembly.

FIG. 43 shows the finger plate described by FIG. 42 in a state mounted on the applicator core.

FIG. 44 shows a finger plate of a totally different, alternative kind in its first three-dimensional shape.

FIG. 45 shows the applicator place shown by FIG. 44 in its second three-dimensional shape.

FIG. 46 shows a section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L in FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 serves for explaining what a bristle is understood to be within the sense of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preliminary Considerations, Applicable to all Embodiments

It must be remarked in advance that the invention relates to cosmetics applicators, and in particular to mascara applicators. In contrast to a hair brush, the fingers of such cosmetics applicators are not used primarily for combing, but rather for taking up and storing cosmetic mass that is to be transferred in a targeted manner to the skin or the hair, and in particular, the eyelashes. A combing effect, specifically, a separating effect of the fingers, which may also be registered, may be present, but is not the solely critical effect.

The applicators according to the invention are generally correspondingly delicate. Their actual finger covering preferably has a maximum diameter or a maximum transversal extent of 20 mm, better only of 15 mm.

The length of the actual finger covering in the direction of the longitudinal applicator axis L, independent of, or also in combination with, the above-mentioned dimensions, is preferably 55 mm at most, better 35 mm at most.

This makes clear that the finger-carrying plates to be described later generally also have rather small dimensions; therefore, as a rule, no plates are discussed herein whose large main surfaces have lateral edge lengths of 100 mm×100 mm and more.

The invention is based on the basic idea of separating the production of the actual applicator core, which is optionally connected to a coupling part for coupling it to a stem, or which also transitions integrally into the stem or a handling means, from the production of the bristle covering.

Therefore, a finger-carrying plate as it is shown, for example, by the FIGS. 1 to 3, forms a starting point for realizing the invention.

A finger-carrying plate 2 typically has two large main surfaces H and four narrow lateral surfaces S, see, for example, FIG. 3. The surface area of each large main surface H is generally larger by at least the factor 10, better by at least the factor 15, than the surface area of each of the lateral surfaces S. One of these large surfaces H is mostly at least predominantly occupied by fingers 3, which are to be discussed later.

The finger-carrying plate 2 is elastic in the direction perpendicular to its main surfaces H, preferably along the predominant part, and mostly even along its entire surface of the main surface H. Typically, the finger-carrying plate 2 is thin; its thickness D perpendicular to its two main surfaces, which is marked in FIG. 2, is generally 0.9 mm at most, better, however, only 0.6 mm at most, except for individual local thick portions, such as thicker retaining organs 4, e.g. mushroom-shaped or also hollow-cylindrical retaining organs for “buttoning in” the finger-carrying plate.

The finger-carrying plates are preferably configured in a rectangular manner, i.e. the large main surfaces H each have two opposing shorter lateral edges SK and two opposing longer lateral edges SL. Particularly preferably, it applies that SK≦0.5*SL, wherein even a ratio of SK≦0.25*SL is ideal for many cases of application—the respective finger-carrying plate then becomes strip-shaped. The lateral edges do not necessarily have to be straight. In particular, the short lateral edges SK are curved in some embodiments. For example, exemplary embodiments in which the short lateral edges are convexly curved in the plane or family of planes spanned between the main surfaces they are associated with are very advantageous. The finger-carrying plate can then assume a first three-dimensional shape, which can be described as being tongue-shaped; see, for example, FIG. 13.

To a very predominant extent, the finger-carrying plate 2 consists of plastic, or in some cases, which are not preferred, of a material with a rubber-like or soft-elastic matrix, which, however, is not preferred. In exceptional cases, the finger plate 2 may also be configured as a metal film, which is to be discussed later.

While being elastically deformed, the finger-carrying plate 2 can therefore be brought from the first, in this case totally plane, three-dimensional shape which it assumes due to its production, and which is shown, for example, in FIGS. 1 to 3, into a second three-dimensional shape differing therefrom more than just insubstantially, which is not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, but is visualized later with reference to other examples.

Where mention is made of an elastic deformation in connection with finger-carrying plates 2 made of plastic, this preferably means a purely elastic deformation, with plastic components that are, at most, insubstantial. However, the invention can be used in a useful manner even if the deformation has a plastic component worth mentioning, as long as the latter does not constitute the main part of the deformation or is at least predominant.

As was already explained, finger-carrying plates 2 of metal of a film-like configuration are also conceivable as exceptions. Where large deformations are demanded, as in this case, metal can be deformed substantially only plastically, always superposed by an elastic component that is only small and negligible for the application discussed herein. Not least in this case, a substantially plastic deformation of the finger plate also comes under the invention.

The finger-carrying plate 2 is covered with fingers 3. These fingers 3 may either be inherently rigid, like the teeth of a comb, and/or inherently flexible organs, which are here referred to with the term “bristles”, which is to be interpreted broadly. In many cases, a “mixed covering” is expedient, which ideally consists of 95% to 65% fingers that are bristles, and the remainder of fingers that are the teeth of a comb. Typically, the teeth of a comb are arranged according to a certain pattern which repeats itself preferably several times on a finger-carrying plate.

The last Figure belonging to this application, FIG. 47, illustrates what a bristle within the sense of the invention is to be understood to be.

In any case, a bristle refers to a rod-shaped item whose extent in the direction of the longitudinal axis L is larger by the factor 4, better by the factor 5, than its maximum diameter Dmax in the region above the bristle root, which may possibly transition into the finger-carrying plate as a rounded portion; see FIG. 47. The maximum diameter of a bristle within the sense of the invention is preferably ≦0.75 mm, better still ≦0.5 mm.

Due to such a design, a bristle is an organ which is elastically resilient transverse to its longitudinal axis to such an extent that the distal end of the bristle can be deflected by reversible elastic deformation perpendicular to the longitudinal bristle axis L by an amount AL that corresponds to at least 4 times, better at least 6 times the maximum diameter Dmax of the bristle; again, see FIG. 47.

The invention is able to bring its advantages to bear fully in those cases where the finger-carrying plate 2 and the fingers 3 connected thereto have been manufactured by injection-molding, so that the fingers 3 are integrally connected to the finger-carrying plate.

Ideally, these fingers 3 have a round, elliptical or oval cross section, or a polygonal cross section that approaches the circular, e.g. with a hexagonal, octagonal or decagonal cross section.

It is particularly advantageous if the diameter or the mean diameter of the bristle tapers from the bristle root towards the free bristle end, preferably substantially or even completely continuously. The individual bristle in that case has the shape of a truncated cone (e.g. in the case of a round cross section) or of a pyramid in the broader sense (e.g. in the case of a hexagonal, octagonal or decagonal cross section).

In some cases, fingers 3 which are configured like a piece of cake or a triangle and which are connected to the main surface H of the finger-carrying plate 2 in the region of their narrower tip are also advantageous.

A particularly rational manufacture is ensured where the finger-carrying plate 2 and the fingers have been injection-molded together and preferably in a single shot from the same material.

However, where special usage characteristics are demanded, the procedure may advantageously be such that the finger-carrying plate is produced from a different material, in particular from a different plastic, than the fingers. For this purpose, it may be expedient to first injection-mold the finger-carrying plate without the fingers or only with part of the fingers, and then to injection-mold the other fingers by them being shot from one side through the finger-carrying plate 2. This is done by the finger-carrying plate 2, after it has been injection-molded, resting with one of its main surfaces against a mold wall from which finger-forming cavities branch off. The finger-forming plastic mass is supplied from the other main surface of the finger-carrying plate 2. Under the high pressure with which the finger-forming plastic is supplied, it respectively penetrates the finger-carrying plate 2 in those locations where it spans over a mouth of a finger-forming cavity.

Not only the flexibility of the finger-carrying plate can be adjusted rather well by such a production method. Depending on the material of which the finger-carrying plate 2 is comprised and on how thick the layer of the finger-forming plastic is that forms a sandwich with the main surface of the finger-carrying plate 2 facing away from the fingers, the critical bending behavior of the finger-carrying plate, which is to be discussed below, can be adjusted over wide ranges.

Provided that the fingers are produced by injection molding, the position of each finger can be predetermined very exactly by the positioning of the corresponding finger-forming cavity, especially if the fingers are disposed on a plane or at least predominantly plane finger-carrying plate.

In that case, it is particularly advantageous to arrange the fingers on the finger-carrying plate (as long as that assumes its first three-dimensional shape) in such a way that they form rows of fingers standing one behind the other in a first and preferably also in a second direction perpendicular thereto. It is very much ideal if rows of fingers standing one behind the other result also diagonally, such as illustrated by FIG. 1, for example. The fingers of one row could stand one behind the other, aligned very exactly, or alternatively, be alternately laterally offset, preferably by less than two, better only by less than one, full finger diameter, measured in the region of the finger base above the rounded portion with which a finger transitions into the finger-carrying plate. Of course, this definition presumes fingers with a round cross section, otherwise, the corresponding mean finger diameter at said point is important.

It must be remarked that the production of finger-carrying plates by means of the injection-molding method, with fingers whose longitudinal axes all extend at least substantially parallel and which are brought into a cylindrical form or the like only later, constitutes a decisive simplification, particularly with regard to the tools. In order to injection-mold a cylindrical applicator core, for example, from which bristles protrude into all directions, an injection mold is required which is divided in the form of multiple pieces of cake and whose components all have to be moved relative to one another and into radially inward or radially outward directions in order to close the mold and be able to demold the applicator without the bristles being torn off after injection molding.

A finger-carrying plate, which in its first three-dimensional shape is fully or substantially plane, with fingers that all extend parallel in the direction of its longitudinal axis and whose fingers extend in many or all directions in space only later, once the finger-carrying plate has been forced into the second three-dimensional shape during assembly, is much easier to manufacture.

However, it is also possible to provide the finger-carrying plate at least partially with fingers whose longitudinal finger axes deviate completely or in some portions from the direction of the normal on the surface of the large main surfaces H, for example with fingers which are preferably continuously curved in one direction, and/or fingers whose direction of curvature changes its sign once or several times over the extent of the longitudinal bristle axis. With the invention, fingers can also be realized very well which are profiled and which have at their end a thickened portion, a hook or a tip of an arrow, which respectively function as an eyelash retaining organ.

However, it is not an absolute requirement to produce the fingers solely by injection molding. Particularly where the fingers form bristles, the following layout can bring about a special effect which often cannot be realized at all with an “in situ tufting” of a completely assembled applicator, because such an “in situ tufting” is not possible due to the complex second three-dimensional shape which the finger carrier assumes after its assembly.

Instead, the finger-carrying plate can also be tufted, in particular in an anchor-less manner, with tufts of bristles. This is particularly easy to do in the case of finger-carrying plates that assume a plane or largely plane first three-dimensional shape. It is thus very easily possible to implant the tufting “tuft by tuft”, particularly by gluing or welding, or even mold the finger-carrying plate 2 around bristle tufts and thus attach bristle tufts at defined points on the finger-carrying plate in an anchor-less manner.

Expediently, the finger-carrying plate 2 is substantially, and ideally completely, inherently plane as long as it assumes its first three-dimensional shape. However, this is not absolutely necessary. As can be seen well in FIG. 4, the finger-carrying plate can also be curved in itself or assume an extent in space; ideally, the finger-carrying plate in that case only has a slight waviness, as is shown by FIG. 5, whose amplitude A corresponds to 4 times the plate thickness D at most, better still only 2.5 times.

Preferably, the finger-carrying plate, in the complete surface area between its lateral edges SK and SL, is continuously closed in itself and mostly configured with a substantially constant thickness D (which was already explained above as such).

In some cases of application, it is expedient to provide the finger-carrying plate with mostly regularly disposed openings 6, preferably in the form of line-like or strip-like openings, with connecting webs 50 remaining, which provide for the cohesion of the portions forming the edge of the respective opening; see FIG. 4. These openings can serve for increasing the flexibility of the finger-carrying plate 2 or for specifically influencing its deformation behavior during the transfer from the first three-dimensional shape into the second three-dimensional shape; also see FIGS. 4, 5 and 6.

For the same reason, the finger-carrying plate can be provided with thin portions 7, preferably line-like or strip-like thin portions, wherein, however, the connecting webs 50 can optionally also be configured as thin portions. Advantageously, these thin portions are configured as film hinges and ideally arranged regularly; see FIGS. 7 to 8. Ideally, the thin portions go completely through in the direction along a lateral edge SL or SK.

What is important, however, is that the finger-carrying plate 2 is made in such a way that it can be transferred from a first three-dimensional shape, which it has received due to its production, into a second three-dimensional shape, which differs more than just insubstantially therefrom.

In any case, this is already the case if the finger-carrying plate can be bent or folded at least along a line about that line.

In a broader sense, it is possible to say that a transfer from the first three-dimensional shape into the second three-dimensional shape can be called that when the finger-carrying plate deforms not just locally and/or deforms not just slightly (e.g. <5/10 mm). The latter would be the case if a beading-like bristle carrier, without being subjected to a bending worth mentioning, is pressed from the side in a straight line into a dovetail or beading groove and, due to the tension applied in this manner, is subjected to a deformation or “broadening” of a few 1/10 mm, or if a bristle-carrying plate is locally deformed in order to connect it with a joining member by spot welding or hot-needle puncturing, in which a hot needle or a hot pin is driven into the joining members, which lie one atop the other, which presses the one plastic into the other and, in the process, establishes a connection locally, which is mostly partially positive and partially welded and/or glued.

On the whole, it is to be noted that the transfer from a first into a second three-dimensional shape is called that when the extent in space of the bristle plate or the curvature of its large main surfaces changes so as to be discernible to the naked eye, excluding impaired vision.

Ideally, the local radius of curvature of the large main surfaces changes along their entire surfaces, both in the longitudinal as well as in the transverse direction, when the bristle plates have been transferred from their first three-dimensional shape, which they were given during their production, into their second three-dimensional shape.

It is advantageous to provide the finger-carrying plates with preferably several retaining organs 4, by means of which the finger-carrying plate can be fixated on the applicator core, preferably without adhesive in each case, and without the necessity of an additional weld-connection of the finger-carrying plate itself. This saves waiting times, which could possibly be necessary otherwise, until the adhesive has hardened or the weld seam has hardened, which is of importance here, because a joining takes place during which, as a rule (due to the transfer of the finger carrying plates into their second three-dimensional shape), two components having an inner tension are connected to each other, so that they can be let go, after gluing or welding, only when the required minimum final strength has been reached.

The retaining organs 4 on the finger-carrying plates 2 are preferably configured as openings, which are completely surrounded by an edge, in the finger-carrying plates, into which a retaining organ of the applicator core can be introduced in order to provide a frictional (“press connection”) and/or positive fit sufficient for retention (“click in” or button connection). Alternatively, T-groove-strips, dovetail-like or beading-like strips are provided as retaining organs 4, which are preferably configured to be at least predominantly or, better still, substantially, continuous in one direction of the main surface. This corresponds to a plurality of individual elements aligned one behind the other, which keep a distance from each other, but functionally form a continuous T-groove-strip, dovetail-like strip or beading-like strip.

The retaining organs 5 on the associated applicator cores, which are provided with one or more of the finger-carrying plates, are configured in a complementary manner. Where they serve for buttoning, they preferably have the shape of a narrowed stem which bears a thickened portion for buttoning—such as a ball, a mushroom-shaped cap or an arrow.

Such retaining organs may optionally also be produced in situ, after the mounting of the finger-carrying plate. For this purpose, a pin, which is at first substantially free from any thickened portions, is pushed through the opening of the finger plate during assembly and then provided by means of a heat treatment with a “thickened portion for buttoning” at its end.

Where retaining organs 5 are being used, by means of which a press-connection is to be produced, these retaining organs are preferably configured as internally hollow tube members or “tube stubs”. Depending on the thickness of the tube wall in the radial direction, the tube members can then be elastically compressed to a greater or lesser extent in the radial direction, which considerably promotes the defined configuration and the assembly of the press connection.

At their free end, the tube members preferably have an oblique introducing portion.

The tube member can be additionally provided with a click member, either in the form of a latching bead and/or latching groove extending completely or partially around it in the circumferential direction, or in the form of a barbed hook.

The latching members described up to this point are advantageous in that they do not require any special additional welding machine or the like, but that the retaining organs are fully formed, ready for assembly, on the finger-carrying plates and the applicator cores, so that the assembly machine, which is required anyway, can also take care of the connection.

Alternatively, the latching members 4 that the finger-carrying plates possess can of course be configured such as just described for the retaining members 5 of the applicator cores, and vice versa.

In a few cases, which are, however, not excluded from the outset, the retaining organs 4, 5 can be totally or partially lacking because they have been completely or partially replaced by, for example, welding, in particular spot welding, or, for example, by the hot-needle puncturing already addressed above, both of which have also proven advantageous, particularly in the case of large numbers where the additional machine-related expenditure has no substantial impact. Due to the “cooling” or “hardening issues” already mentioned above, it is particularly advantageous if at least a few retaining organs 4, 5 are provided that are capable of pre-fixating the joining members relative to each other also until the weld has cooled off or the adhesive has hardened.

For completeness' sake, it must be noted that where an adhesive connection is made, it can make sense to work with a so-called pressure-sensitive adhesive, with which the applicator core and/or the finger-carrying plate 3 to be mounted thereon has been provided in advance. Then, joining can take place in the manner of a “sticker”, which immediately exhibits at least predominantly its full or a sufficient pressure-sensitive adhesive action after being contacted to the surface to which it is to be applied.

First Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIGS. 13 to 15 show a first complete exemplary embodiment that illustrates how the above-described finger-carrying plates 2 are used in order to produce an applicator 1, and in particular a cosmetics applicator.

Preferably, a finger-carrying plate 2 as is shown by FIG. 13 is used as the starting point, wherein, however, finger-carrying plates with a different design can also be used. In any case, the statements in the introduction pertaining to the finger-carrying plates apply mutatis mutandis.

Here, the finger-carrying plate 2 has a tongue-like shape, i.e. its long lateral edges SL are larger by at least the factor 4 than its short lateral edges SK.

The finger-carrying plate 2 is equipped with a field of fingers 3 in which the fingers respectively form rows of fingers aligned one behind the other in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction extending perpendicularly thereto. Here, the fingers are preferably all oriented parallel with regard to their longitudinal axis.

The narrow lateral edges SK of the finger-carrying plates are rounded in a convex manner here.

In the present example, the finger-carrying plate 2, in the immediate vicinity of its short lateral edges SK, is respectively provided with a retaining organ 4 in the form of a “button hole”, which may have a round cross section, as shown here, or optionally also a slit-like cross section. The retaining organ 4 is preferably situated outside the finger field.

In this exemplary embodiment, the finger field consists, preferably predominantly and ideally completely, of bristles in the sense as already stated above.

An applicator core 8 as is shown by FIG. 14 belongs to the above-described finger-carrying plate 2 used here.

This applicator core 8 extends along the longitudinal applicator axis L. It is provided with a core part 9 which preferably has the form of an ideally massive rod which is made slimmer as compared with the stem portion 10. The core part 9 preferably transitions into a stem portion 10 or into a coupling part. The stem portion can be an integral component of an applicator ending in a handling means, or be connected via a coupling part to another stem portion, which in turn mostly transitions into a handling means, or be directly connected to a handling means.

Here, the core part 9 is provided with preferably two retaining organs 5, which have a mushroom-shaped form, for example, and which are able to reach through the retaining organs 4 provided in the shape of the holes on the side of the finger-carrying plate 2, so that a button connection is established jointly.

Whereas FIG. 13 shows the finger-carrying plate 2 in its first, preferably completely plane three-dimensional shape, FIG. 15 shows the finger-carrying plate 2 after it has been brought into its second three-dimensional shape and has been fixated on the applicator core 8.

For this purpose, the finger-carrying plate 2 is wound along a helical line around the core part 9 of the applicator core 8 several times, preferably over at least three full turns, as can be seen well in FIG. 15, i.e. the longitudinal axis LF of the finger-carrying plate, which can be seen in FIG. 13, forms a helical line extending around the core part 9 of the applicator core. The ends of the finger-carrying plate 2 are attached to the core part 9 accordingly, so that the finger-carrying plate 2 permanently retains its second three-dimensional shape. As can be seen, the finger-carrying plate 2 is in this case so elastic that it changes its shape on its entire main surface H, i.e. along the entire surface of the main surface H.

It is easy to see in FIG. 15 how the mushroom-like retaining organs 5 of the core part 9 reach through the retaining organs 4 in the shape of the button holes on the finger-carrying plate 2.

It can also be seen in FIG. 15 that the fingers 3, which are all oriented parallel in the first three-dimensional shape of the finger-carrying plate, now extend in different directions in space, which results in a novel finger pattern. Such a finger pattern, in exactly this shape, cannot be produced in any other way, particularly not by injection molding.

Second Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIGS. 16 and 17 show a second complete exemplary embodiment of the invention.

A finger-carrying plate 2 as it is shown by FIG. 16 is used for this exemplary embodiment. In principle, this finger-carrying plate 2 corresponds to the finger-carrying plate already shown by FIG. 13, so that reference can be made to the explanations given there.

The only point to note is that the fingers are not arranged in lines in the longitudinal and transverse direction, but are distributed irregularly. However, they may also be arranged in lines also in this case, just like in the preceding exemplary embodiment. Conversely, the type of arrangement of the fingers here can of course also be chosen for the preceding exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 again shows the finger-carrying plate 2 in its first three-dimensional shape, which it assumes immediately after its production.

FIG. 17 shows the finished applicator 1.

In this case, an applicator core 8 is used again which may be made in such a way as it was already described above for the applicator core in the context of the first complete exemplary embodiment. In particular, the applicator core 8 can have a core part 9 and a stem portion 10 of the type described above.

Preferably, the applicator core 8 is equipped with four or six of the finger carriers 2.

The assembly of the finger-carrying plates 2 in this case is carried out in such a way that the longitudinal axis LF of the finger-carrying plate 2 is oriented at least substantially, in this case completely, parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator core.

In the process, each of these finger carriers 2 is attached in such a way that it is bent from its first three-dimensional shape into a C-shape in the broadest sense, and is then mounted firmly on the applicator core 8 in this position, so that it maintains its second three-dimensional shape in the form of a curvature, which is often similar to that of a leaf spring. For this purpose, retaining organs 5 provided on the side of the applicator core 8, if taken in pairs, respectively, are spaced apart by a smaller distance (seen in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator) than the retaining organs 4, which are provided on one finger-carrying plate 2, respectively, in the form of the button holes. Also in this case, a button connection between the applicator core 8 and the finger-carrying plates 2 is produced again.

From FIG. 17, it becomes clear that the fingers 3, which were previously all oriented parallel to each other, now protrude radially in different directions due to the curvature of the finger-carrying plates 2 described above.

An effect that is advantageous for application may in this case be that the finger-carrying plates are placed, with their main surface H facing away from the finger-carrying main surface, over a cavity at least over the predominant part of their length and therefore really form members that are substantially resilient in the radial direction, which results in a novel, interesting application behavior.

Third Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIG. 18 shows a third complete exemplary embodiment.

Preferably, finger plates 2 as they have already been described above for the two preceding exemplary embodiments are again used within the context of this third complete exemplary embodiment; also see FIGS. 13 and 16. The statements there thus also apply here.

The special feature in this exemplary embodiment is that the longitudinal axes LF of the finger-carrying plates 2 here extend in a helical shape around the longitudinal axis L of the applicator core 8. In contrast to the similar exemplary embodiment already discussed above, each finger-carrying plate does not encircle the core part 9 completely, but extends only over an angle of ≦190 °, and better of ≦100 °, around the core part 9. Starting from their first three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 16, the finger-carrying plates have been brought into a corresponding second three-dimensional shape.

Also in this case, fixation is effected by retaining organs on the side of the finger-carrying plate, which are configured as button holes, and retaining organs 5 on the side of the applicator core configured in a mushroom shape. As in all other exemplary embodiments, it also applies in this case that alternatively, a welding or hot puncturing process could also be used. A self-adhesive assembly would also be conceivable.

What must be noted particularly for this exemplary embodiment, and what also applies to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 15, is that it can be advantageous to provide the applicator core 8 or its core part 9 with a topography, i.e. a surface finish, which assists in respectively forcing the finger-carrying plates 2 into their second three-dimensional shape. In this sense, it may make sense to provide the core part 9 with spiral grooves or spiral-shaped depressions, or a pattern of spiral-shaped depressions and spiral-shaped raised portions providing an edge therefor, into which the finger plates can be inserted, at least to some extent, in such a spiral shape as is shown in FIG. 18, for example. For example, a thin partition wall protruding approximately radially-outwards, as it is visualized in FIG. 18 under the reference sign T, and which, if necessary, forms a spiral-shaped raised portion in the above sense, can be provided between these spiral grooves.

Such a shape makes it easier to force the finger plates into the second three-dimensional shape shown here and permanently keep them there, even under the influence of the action of a wiper.

Fourth Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIG. 19 shows a fourth complete exemplary embodiment.

Preferably, finger plates 2 are used also for the production of this exemplary embodiment as they are respectively shown by the FIGS. 13, 16 and as they have already been described in general terms within the context of the previously described exemplary embodiments and prior to that. The statements there that pertain to the finger plates therefore also apply here.

Further, the statements of the other exemplary embodiments on the characteristics of the applicator core 8 also apply.

The other statements already made with regard to the preceding exemplary embodiment also apply here mutatis mutandis, unless the explicitly described differences show differently.

In contrast to the preceding exemplary embodiments, the finger-carrying plates 2 are brought into a fundamentally different second three-dimensional shape in this case.

In this case, the second three-dimensional shape of the finger-carrying plates is such that the finger-carrying plates are each deformed in a U-shape and are then are put over the core part 9 from its free end face, in order to be attached to the core part 9 in this position in each case.

Thus, the result is a structure that slightly resembles a structure of the ribs of a woven wicker basket, i.e. the ribs that, starting from the bottom, are bent in the substantially vertical direction and extend to the upper edge of the basket. In contrast to the previous exemplary embodiments, the finger plate 2 is therefore mostly curved to a great extent only locally in order to be brought into its second three-dimensional shape, whereas mostly, the legs of the U largely or even substantially retain their shape, which the finger-carrying plate 2 already had in its first three-dimensional shape.

Thus, the longitudinal axis LF of each finger-carrying plate here generally forms a long straight portion that is immediately adjacent to an arcuate portion, which in turn also transitions directly into a correspondingly long straight portion.

Interesting finger configurations result in this manner, particularly in the region of the previously free end faces of the core part 9.

The attachment between the respective finger-carrying plate 2 and the core part 9 is again carried out as described above. The finger-carrying plates 2 may each have retaining organs 4 in the form of button holes, into which the retaining organs 5 of the coupling part, which are mushroom-like, for example, can be buttoned.

It is to be remarked that the bristle covering of the finger-carrying plates 2 used here can be adapted to this special mounting method.

It may be advisable to configure one or more bristle-carrying plates 2 that are situated towards the inside without any bristle covering in those locations where another bristle-carrying plate 2 reaches over them, i.e. in the region which is designated with the reference sign KOZ in FIG. 19, which stands for “contact zone”. Here, it once again applies that the predominant part of the longitudinal axis LF of a finger-carrying plate is configured parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator core 8, whereas a small part of the longitudinal axis LF of each finger-carrying plate 2 extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator core 8; again, see FIG. 19.

Fifth Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIGS. 20 and 21 show a fifth complete exemplary embodiment. With respect to its concept, this differs significantly from the previously described exemplary embodiments.

A finger-carrying plate 2 as it is shown by FIG. 20 is used for the production of this exemplary embodiment.

With the exception of the positioning of the retaining organs 4, the statements pertaining to the finger-carrying plates 2 of the previous embodiments apply to the finger-carrying plate 2 as such. This particularly applies with respect to the kind of arrangement of the bristles and with respect to the ratio between the long and the short lateral edges SK and SL.

The special feature of this finger-carrying plate 2 is that it is equipped with a plurality of, preferably more than six, retaining organs 4. They are preferably all disposed coaxially along an imaginary longitudinal axis LF of the finger-carrying plate.

This permits the mounting of the finger-carrying plate 2 on the applicator core 8 or its core part 9 in the manner shown by FIG. 21.

Here, the core part 9 is configured as a pin that reaches through the various retaining organs 4 of the finger-carrying plate 2 shown by FIG. 20, which are configured as holes or button holes, so that the finger-carrying plate 2 is, as it were, threaded in a wavy manner onto the core part 9, but ideally so that the finger-carrying plate is not kinked, i.e does not change its profile anywhere in a discontinuous or substantially discontinuous manner. Preferably, the applicator core 8 carries in the region of the free end at the end face of its core part 9 a retaining organ 5, which is again configured in the form of a button, i.e. preferably mushroom-like, also in this case. However, a retaining organ of a different configuration may also be provided, such as a pressed-on or latched-on cap or the like.

As can be seen in FIG. 21, this results in a very interesting bristle covering. For whenever the finger-carrying plate 2 is correspondingly thin, the structure carrying the bristles, which has been created by the threading process, is rather flexible and soft to the touch. In addition, the bristles protrude in different directions in a very interesting manner. Finally, in some cases, gaps held closed only due to elastic biasing, which may possibly accommodate individual fibers, e.g. eyelashes, in a pincer-like manner in order to cause a curling effect or the like, remain between the individual waves of the finger-carrying plate 2.

Finally, it must be emphasized that the mass storage properties of such an applicator are large and can be adapted well in accordance with the current requirements, by more or less being wiped off using a corresponding wiper. Generally, it should be noted that in this exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal axis LF of the finger-carrying plate is characterized in that it intersects the longitudinal axis L of the applicator core 8 several times, and preferably at an angle of 90° plus/minus 35°, better of 90° plus/minus 15°. Preferably, the finger-carrying plate intersects the longitudinal axis L of the applicator core at least five times.

For completeness' sake, it should be noted that a limitation to a single finger-carrying plate being “threaded” in this manner onto the core part 9 of the applicator core 8 is not absolutely necessary. Instead, it is of course also possible to thread two or more finger-carrying plates 2 equidirectionally, i.e. in a row one behind the other, or in the shape of a cross, by starting to thread the first finger-carrying plate 2 in one direction, which is rotated by, for example, 90° relative to the direction in which the threading of a second finger-carrying plate 2 is started immediately thereafter, which, however, is not shown by a drawing in this case.

It may make sense, also in the case of the finger-carrying plates used here, to provide no fingers, preferably from the outset, at least in those contact zones KOZ of the main surfaces in which one part of the finger-carrying plate, respectively, comes into contact with another part of the finger-carrying plate; see FIG. 21.

Sixth Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIGS. 22 to 24 show a sixth complete exemplary embodiment of the invention.

In order to realize this exemplary embodiment, slightly differently configured finger-carrying plates 2 are used than in the previous exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 22 shows an example for a finger-carrying plate 2 used here, seen from its end face. What stands out is that the finger-carrying plate 2 here has a dovetail-shaped or also beading-shaped retaining organ 4, which extends parallel to the long lateral edge SL over the finger-carrying plate 2, preferably without any interruption. The finger-carrying plate 2 is covered with fingers at least on one of its large main surfaces H, and if necessary also on the lateral surfaces thereof, that respectively point laterally outwards; optionally, the rear main surface H facing towards the retaining organ 4 is also covered with bristles.

Preferably, a thin portion 7, which in this case is preferably configured as a V-shaped notch, is provided in the finger-carrying plate 2. This thin portion 7 in this case is situated directly centrally over the retaining organ 4 and also extends in the direction parallel to the long lateral edge SL over the entire finger-carrying plate 2. This thin portion 7 decisively facilitates the folding of the finger-carrying plate and most frequently makes it possible at all to bring the finger-carrying plate 2 from its first three-dimensional shape shown by FIG. 22 into its critical second three-dimensional shape shown by FIG. 24.

It becomes clear from FIG. 24 that the applicator core 8, or its core part 9, is a core which is equipped with, for example, four, possibly also with six or eight retaining organs 5, which respectively constitute a beading groove or dovetail groove extending in the direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. In each case, this beading groove or dovetail groove is dimensioned in such a way that it pulls the finger-carrying plate 2 shown by FIG. 22 inwards in the radial direction to such an extent that the plate wings, which extend laterally away from the retaining organ 4 of the finger-carrying plate, are bent outwards by the adjacent circumferential surface of the applicator core 8 or the core part 9, so that they assume the approximate V-shape, for example, which is shown by FIG. 24.

This approximate V-shape is the second three-dimensional shape of the finger-carrying plates 2.

In this way, an applicator with a very complex geometry can be created, which cannot be otherwise produced in this manner, at least not with injection-molded fingers or injection-molded bristles—an applicator having a comparable shape could hardly be molded if the bristles were to be injection-molded in situ.

Generally, protection is sought, within the context of this exemplary embodiment, for an applicator on which plates are mounted to which radially acting forces folding them together are applied by the applicator core. If the plates are slitted multiple times, they form the fingers themselves; otherwise, the fingers are molded on or inserted.

Seventh Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIGS. 25 and 26 show a seventh complete exemplary embodiment. The finger plate 2 shown by FIGS. 7 to 9 is used for producing this exemplary embodiment.

Apart from said finger plates of FIGS. 7 to 9, an applicator core 8 is used within the context of this exemplary embodiment which is comprised of a core part 9 and a coupling part 11.

Here, the core part 9 preferably has a square cross section, but could also be rectangular or polygonal if the configuration of the finger plate is adapted accordingly. On every side, the core part 9 has a retaining organ 5, which in this case is configured in the shape of a dovetail groove, but may also be configured as a T-groove or beading groove.

Due to the fact that the finger plate shown by FIG. 8 consists of individual strip-shaped members 2 a, which respectively carry the fingers and which are respectively connected to each other by a film hinge, which forms the thin portion 7 in this case, it is possible to fold the finger plate several times starting from its first three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 8 and thus transfer it into its second three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 25. The film hinges are dimensioned just so that each finger-carrying strip of the finger-carrying plate comes to lie substantially centrally over the outer circumferential surface of the core part 9 associated to it.

Folded in this manner, the finger-carrying plate 2 can be pushed from the free end face of the core part 9 over it in such a way that the dovetail-like retaining organs 4 of the finger-carrying plate 2 slide into the dovetail grooves, which constitute the retaining organs 5 on the core part 9. In this manner, the finger-carrying plate 2 is permanently retained by the core part 9 in its second three-dimensional shape.

The individual strips 2 a of the finger-carrying plate, of which one, respectively, comes to lie on one side of the core part 9, preferably are not deformed as such, or only in an irrelevant and inconsiderable range of a few 1/10 mm. Only the film hinges are in actual fact subjected to substantial deformations.

The securing of the position of the finger-carrying plate 2 pushed onto the core part 9 can be effected by various means. Here, a weld connection in the region of the dovetail guide made at the end face would be conceivable—if the end face of the dovetail guide us fused with the core part 9 of the cosmetics applicator 1, a permanent pull-out prevention is ensured. Instead, a gluing process can also be carried out. The hot-needle puncturing process, which was already mentioned several times, is also possible.

Alternatively, a fixation can take place as it is shown in FIGS. 27 to 30, and in particular in FIGS. 29 and 30. An end cap can be provided for this purpose, which may possibly even carry fingers 30 itself, and which also has retaining organs 4 corresponding to the retaining organs 4 of the respective finger-carrying plates. Therefore, the end cap can be pushed onto the free end of the core part 9. Preferably, the end cap is fixated there, by latching, welding or gluing, for example.

Of course, the end of the core part 9 on the side of the end face can also be configured in such a way that such a cap can be latched or otherwise fixated there without it being provided with retaining organs 4 itself, which latch into the corresponding complementary retaining organs 5 of the core part.

Purely for completeness' sake, reference may be made to the fact that it may make sense to use such a configuration, or a corresponding configuration, if hexagonal or octagonal cross sections are present. The statements then apply mutatis mutandis.

Eighth Complete Exemplary Embodiment

Preferably, a finger-carrying plate 2 as it is shown by FIGS. 10 to 12 is used for the production of the eighth complete exemplary embodiment.

This finger-carrying plate is preferably characterized in that it ideally has, in each case at the very outside along its long lateral edges SL, retaining organs 4 which respectively form half of a dovetail profile, a beading profile or even a T-profile (in the sense of an inverted T).

The statements with regard to equipping the finger-carrying plate 2 with fingers within the context of the FIGS. 10 to 12 and within the context of the other general explanations apply here mutatis mutandis.

The critical point is that an applicator core 8 is used which has a specially configured core part 9. FIG. 35 shows the applicator core 8 with its core part 9, its stem portion 10 and the coupling part 11 adjacent thereto, which serves for connection preferably with another stem portion not shown. Here, FIG. 33 is particularly informative, which shows the applicator core 8 prior to being equipped with the corresponding finger plate and which thus differs from FIGS. 31, 32, 35 and 36, which all show the fully equipped applicator.

The critical point is that the core part 9 preferably has only one retaining organ 5 here, which in this case has the shape of a beading groove, but which could also be configured as a T-groove or dovetail groove. The diameter of the core part 9 is preferably smaller than that of the stem portion 10. Ideally, the difference in diameter is just about twice the thickness D of the finger-carrying plate 2 used herein, which then fits in almost without any visible transition.

The finger-carrying plate shown by FIGS. 11 and 12 is rolled up along the rotation arrows PR (see FIG. 11) until the two long lateral edges SL of the finger-carrying plate 2 meet and the finger-carrying plate 2 now completely forms a tube that is hollow inside. In the process, the long lateral edges SL, which come to rest against each other, are aligned coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the tube. In this way, the two retaining organs 4 (again, see FIG. 11) fold together to form a beading profile whose outer contour corresponds to the inner contour of the retaining organ 5 shown by FIG. 33. It is thus possible to insert the retaining organs 4, which have come to rest against each other, into the beading groove formed by the retaining organ 5 of the core part. After full insertion, an applicator is obtained from which, viewed in the circumferential direction, bristles protrude all around; see in particular FIG. 36.

It must now be prevented that the finger-carrying plate 2 is pulled out from the beading grooves and away from the core part 9. For this purpose, it may be expedient to provide an end cap 12, as is shown, for example, by FIG. 34. This end cap 12 can in turn be provided with fingers at the circumference or at the end face or at the two above-mentioned regions. This end cap is preferably configured in such a way that it can be latched onto the core part 9. Of course, end caps to be glued or welded are also conceivable. The end cap can itself comprise fingers 30, preferably fingers that protrude in the manner of a hedgehog or horizontally.

The finished applicator thus looks as FIG. 31 shows it from the side, or as FIG. 32 shows it from the front.

Also in this case, it must be noted, of course, that the end cap 12 is not absolutely necessary. Instead, the procedure may be such that the core part 9 is left to end at a narrow lateral image SK of the finer-carrying plate 2 and the finger-carrying plate is then attached to the core part 9, for example from the end face, by welding, by hot-needle puncturing or using adhesive.

Ninth Complete Exemplary Embodiment

FIGS. 37 to 40 show a ninth complete exemplary embodiment.

A completely novel finger-carrying plate, which has not been discussed so far, is used for realizing this exemplary embodiment.

Meanwhile, the general statements above apply mutatis mutandis to the thickness D of the finger-carrying plate and the manner in which it is covered with bristles.

Here, the finger-carrying plate 2 consists of a central section 13 to which triangular portions 14 are applied in a pivotable manner via thin portions 7, preferably in the form of film hinges. The subsequent outer side of the triangular portions 14 is in each case provided with a covering of fingers 3, to which the statements in the introduction apply.

In its first three-dimensional shape, the finger-carrying plate 2 is preferably completely plane; in that case, in the broadest sense, it corresponds to a folding box laid out in a plane.

Here, the central section 13 of the finger-carrying plate is provided with a retaining organ 4 in the form of a penetrating hole.

The finger-carrying plate 2 is brought from its first three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 37 into its second three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 40. For this purpose, the triangular portions are each folded about the thin portions 7 in such a way that they meet and their bristles 3 protrude outwards. This results in a kind of pyramid which is covered with bristles 3 on the outside.

Using this retaining organ 4 in the central section 13, which is configured as a penetrating hole, this structure is threaded onto a preferably rod-like retaining organ 5 protruding into the interior.

Preferably, the main surfaces of the triangular portions 14 facing away from the bristle-covered main surfaces are each provided with a further retaining organ 4 a. These further retaining organs 4 a can be seen vaguely in FIG. 40; they are illustrated in more detail by FIGS. 38 and 39.

Each further retaining organ 4 a preferably consists of an elastic claw that is suitable to latch to the circumference of the retaining organ 5 associated with the applicator core. Therefore, by folding the respective triangular portion 14 upwards, its claw-like retaining organ 4 a is pivoted against the retaining organ 5 on the side of the applicator core and then latched to that. How these claw-like retaining organs 4 a respectively come into positive engagement with the retaining organ 5, i.e., how they are clip-connected there, is shown in FIG. 39. FIG. 39 is an enlargement of a detail from FIG. 40, but viewed from above, in the direction along the longitudinal applicator axis L.

Tenth Complete Exemplary Embodiment

In principle, the tenth complete exemplary embodiment corresponds to what was described above, with the exception that in this case, no five-surface pyramid-like structure is used, but a seven- or nine-surface structure that is similar to a pyramid. The principle is always exactly the same as in the preceding exemplary embodiment, so that the details described there apply here mutatis mutandis, unless the explicitly described differences show differently.

The finger-carrying plate 2 used here is shown by FIG. 41. Also in this case, the finger-carrying plate 2 consists of a central section 13 with preferably one retaining organ 4 in the form of a through-bore. Triangular portions 14, which are respectively hinged to the central section 13 by a thin portion 7, also in this case extend from the central section 13. Also in this case, the thin portion 7 is preferably a film hinge.

The main surfaces H of the triangular portions, which later come to lie on the outside, are covered with fingers 3. The general statements already made in the introduction apply to these fingers. Otherwise, as in the previously described exemplary embodiment, it also applies that the fingers may also be distributed irregularly, but are preferably arranged, also in this case, as was described above in the general part of this description.

Assembly takes place in a manner similar to that described previously. The triangular portions 14 are folded around the thin portions 7 towards each other, resulting in a pyramid-like structure. This pyramid-like structure is shown by FIG. 42, this being only a very rough hand sketch. It can be seen clearly how the bristles protrude outwards.

Using the retaining organ 4 in the form of an insertion hole, the pyramid-like structure according to FIG. 42 is attached to the applicator core shown by FIG. 43. For this purpose, the applicator core shown by FIG. 43 is equipped on its end face with a retaining organ 5, which in this case has the shape of a button, for example, preferably of a mushroom-like button. This button is forced through the opening forming the retaining organ 4 on the pyramid-like structure and holds the latter in place.

Thy pyramid-like structure is fixated by an end cap 12 that prevents it from folding open again. The position of the end cap 12 including the latching groove can be seen vaguely in FIG. 41; see the reference sign 15.

The end cap 12 can be welded or glued on. Preferably, however, it is latched on. For this purpose, the triangular portions 14 are each provided with a latching groove, so that a peripheral latching groove results when the pyramid-like shape according to FIG. 42 is finished. The end cap 12 is pushed onto it and latched thereto.

Eleventh Complete Exemplary Embodiment of the Invention

A wholly different way of constructing an applicator in accordance with the principle claimed herein is shown by the FIGS. 45 to 47.

Also in this case, the starting point is a finger-carrying plate, which preferably has a totally plane form in its first three-dimensional shape. This finger-carrying plate preferably is a thin metal plate or metal film.

In order to provide corresponding fingers 3, a number of, for example, triangular or elongate-spatulate punched portions is provided, as illustrated by FIG. 44. Each of the punched-out portions later forms a finger, when the punched section or tab has been straightened up. As shown here, the fingers can be aligned one behind the other in the longitudinal and the transverse direction. Instead, they may also be arranged in accordance with a certain pattern or irregularly. The statements above apply with regard to the dimensioning of the short lateral edge SK and the long lateral edge SL.

After the tabs forming the fingers have been punched out, the finger-carrying plate 2 is transferred from its first three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 44 into its second three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 45. If metal plates are used, this can be done by means of a plastic deformation.

Depending on the thickness D (see FIG. 45) of the metal plate or film used here, an applicator core 8 can either be dispensed, at least in some sections, because the finger-carrying plate is self-supporting and forms the applicator core 8 itself, i.e. only requires a stub to which it is attached.

However, where relatively thin films are used, an applicator core 8 is still required which stabilizes the finger-carrying plate or the metal film forming it from the rear. Especially where metal films are used, it often makes sense to glue the finger-carrying plate 2 to the applicator core. Expediently, a pressure-sensitive adhesive is used in this case, so that the finger-carrying plate, as mentioned above, can be brought into position and attached there like a sticker.

An interesting effect is produced by the tabs, which here form the individual fingers 3 due to being punched out, being straightened up due to the transfer of the finger-carrying plate 2 from its first three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 43 into its second three-dimensional shape shown in FIG. 44, and then protruding outwards like prongs or, depending on the thickness of the material, bristles in the broadest sense.

The configuration of the drop shape shown in FIG. 45 in cross section is advantageous. However, this is not the only kind of useful cross section. Round cross sections, which have proven expedient, may also be realized.

Preferably, small plates of stainless steel are used, which are advantageous in that they do not react with the usual cosmetic substances but are largely inert even over a long storage time.

In general, it is to be noted that protection is sought for a cosmetics applicator which consists of a basic body and of a finger-carrying plate, which is subsequently mounted thereto and produced separately from the basic body. The finger-carrying plate preferably has more than three, better more than five, bristle rows disposed side-by-side, with each bristle row preferably consisting of more than 10, better of more than 15, bristles, which are completely or at least substantially in alignment.

With regard to its basic body, and in particular with regard to its bristle-carrying plate, this cosmetics applicator, for which protection is sought independently of the claims put forth up to this point, may have further features from amongst all the features disclosed in this application.

In particular, the at least one bristle-carrying plate can be characterized in that it is fixated on the basic body only locally or locally several times, so that, in addition to the fingers, a part, preferably a predominant part of the surface area of the bristle-carrying plate, is able to move relative to the basic body.

In summary, and on a higher level, it is to be noted that protection is also sought for a method for producing a cosmetics applicator, which is characterized in that a cosmetics applicator with a core and a preferably plate-shaped finger carrier carrying a number of fingers are produced, wherein the finger carrier is then attached to the core in such a way that, in the process, it changes at least in some portions its three-dimensional shape from a first three-dimensional shape, which it has assumed prior to its attachment to the core, into a second three-dimensional shape which differs therefrom more than just insubstantially.

Said method, which is also claimed, can be characterized in that, due to the transition from the first into the second three-dimensional shape, the spacing that the free ends of adjacent fingers have changes at least in some portions, and/or the orientation in space that the longitudinal axes of adjacent fingers have relative to one another.

It must also be generally noted that protection is also sought for a method for producing a cosmetics applicator, which is characterized in that a cosmetics applicator with an applicator core and a finger-carrying plate carrying a number of fingers are produced separately, wherein the finger-carrying plate is then attached to the applicator core in such a way that, in the process, it changes at least in some portions its three-dimensional shape from a first three-dimensional shape, which is has assumed prior to its attachment to the applicator core, into a second three-dimensional shape which differs therefrom more than just insubstantially.

Protection is also sought for a method, in particular in combination with the previously described method, in which, due to the transition from the first into the second three-dimensional shape, the spacing that the free ends of adjacent fingers have changes at least in some portions, and/or the orientation in space that the longitudinal axes of adjacent fingers have relative to one another.

Finally, protection is also sought for the use of finger-carrying plates for the production of cosmetics applicators that are so flexible that they can be wound around the longitudinal axis L or the end face of the applicator and can be fixated in that position. 

1. A cosmetics applicator comprising: an applicator core; and a finger-carrying elastic plate, which has a first three-dimensional shape prior to being united with the core, wherein the finger-carrying plate is attached to the applicator core in such a way that a second three-dimensional shape, which deviates from the first three-dimensional shape, is thereby forced upon the first three-dimensional shape.
 2. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate, due to its attachment to the applicator core, is under an internal tension that tends to restore the original first three-dimensional shape.
 3. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate can be attached to the applicator core in such a way that a second three-dimensional shape is thus forced upon the finger-carrying plate, which second three-dimensional shape deviates from the first three-dimensional shape more than just insubstantially.
 4. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate has a thin portion in the form of a pivoting or film hinge, which connects individual portions of the finger-carrying plate with one another and, due to its flexibility, supports or defines a transfer of the finger-carrying plate from a first three-dimensional shape into a second three-dimensional shape.
 5. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate is so thin, flexible and mounted on the applicator core in such a way that a curvature of its main surfaces respectively changes on a predominant part of the respective main surface when the finger-carrying plate is transferred from its first three-dimensional shape into its second three-dimensional shape in which it is fixated on the applicator core.
 6. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate is wound in a helical manner about the applicator core and fixated on the core in this position.
 7. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein a thickness of the finger-carrying plate is ≦9 mm, and/or the fingers are predominantly configured as bristles with a maximum bristle diameter of 0.75 mm, and/or the fingers are configured with a maximum length of 12 mm, and/or a maximum spacing of immediately adjacent fingers is between 0.5 mm and 2.75 mm.
 8. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein at least one finger-carrying plate is laid around the applicator core in particular in a U-shaped or V-shaped manner, so that each finger-carrying plate reaches over the applicator core on two circumferential sides and extends over a free end face of the applicator core, or that a finger-carrying plate is configured in a star shape and is laid on the applicator core in such a way that the finger-carrying plate covers, approximately with its center, the free end face of the applicator core and reaches over a plurality of circumferential sides of the applicator core.
 9. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate is laid or folded in a circumferential direction around at least two circumferential sides of a polygonal applicator core and substantially rests flat against the respective circumferential sides.
 10. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate is bent over at least 90° in a circumferential direction around a round or oval applicator core.
 11. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein at least one finger-carrying plate is fixated on the applicator core in such a way that the applicator core, due to this attachment, folds the finger-carrying plate so that the finger-carrying plate protrudes outwards from the applicator core at least in some portions.
 12. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate has on a side thereof facing towards the applicator core at least one positive-fit member, and at least one T-strip or dovetail strip or beading strip with which the finger-carrying plate can be anchored by positive connection on the applicator core in its second three-dimensional shape, or that the applicator core has on a side thereof facing towards the plate at least one such positive-fit member.
 13. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 18, wherein the applicator core has at least one T-groove, dovetail groove or beading groove accessible from an end face of the core, into which a corresponding counterpart of the finger-carrying plate can be inserted by a movement in a direction of a longitudinal core axis after the finger-carrying plate has been forced into its second three-dimensional shape, or the finger-carrying plate has at least one such groove which is accessible from an end face of the plate.
 14. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 19, wherein the finger-carrying plate has, at two spaced-apart locations, positive-fit members that come to rest against each other when the finger-carrying plate assumes a second three-dimensional shape, and then jointly form a single two-part T-strip, a single two-part dovetail strip or a single two-part beading strip which is accommodated by a single T-groove, dovetail groove or beading groove on an applicator core and thus retains the finger-carrying plate in its second three-dimensional shape on the applicator core.
 15. The cosmetics applicator according to claims 14, wherein the cosmetics applicator comprises a ring-like or cap-like end part which is fixed on, or latched to, the applicator core, and which prevents the T-connection, the dovetail connection or the beading connection from being pulled apart.
 16. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate and the applicator core are held against each other by at least one retaining or latching organ or buttoning device.
 17. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate is retained on the applicator core by a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a hook-and-loop fastener or a magnet.
 18. The cosmetics applicator according to claim 1, wherein the finger-carrying plate has, at least in a part of the portions in which it rests against itself or another finger-carrying plate after having been forced into its second three-dimensional shape, a gap in a bristle covering and has no bristles there.
 19. A cosmetics applicator with a finger-carrying plate, which covers at least in some sections more than 40% of an outer circumference of the applicator core.
 20. A cosmetics applicator with at least one finger-carrying plate, wherein an applicator core and the finger-carrying plate are components that are produced separately and are then connected to each other. 